PORTLAND PORT A Taste of England A Perfect Location A Unique Opportunity January 2017 Welcome to Portland Port UK “Welcome to Portland, a destination full of history and intrigue, located at the heart of the breathtaking Jurassic Coast. Cruise guests visiting the port are treated to a whole host of exciting excursion options, including the bucket list, UNESCO World Heritage land mark, Stonehenge. In addition to this, passengers can experience the early Roman City of Bath, the inspiring Salisbury Cathedral, the whimsical tales of Minterne House or the fascinating, one of a kind, Abbotsbury Swannery. As an award-winning destination, we pride ourselves on the warmth of our welcome as well as the variety of excursion options.” Ian McQuade - General Manager (Commercial) Why Portland Port? Portland Port lies in the sweep of Weymouth Bay, at the centre of the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast, an area renowned for its natural beauty and historical heritage. Other local attractions include two more UNESCO World Heritage sites; Stonehenge and the City of Bath as well as numerous stately homes, castles, gardens, historic towns and much, much more. A visit to Portland Port allows access to the quintessential England of rolling green hills, narrow country lanes, picture postcard villages and long centuries of history. There is also traditional fish and chips in abundance, Michelin star restaurants, real ales, fines wines, award winning beaches and stunning cliff top walks. Portland Harbour has a wealth of history itself having played a significant role from the time of King Henry VIII, in preparations for the D-Day landings, up to hosting the sailing events for the London 2012 Olympic Games. Cruise Growth at Portland Port Portland Port has witnessed remarkable growth over recent years. It was once a destination that was relatively unknown in the cruise industry, however, over the last decade it has quickly developed an enviable reputation as the most popular cruise port in the South West of England. The port’s success in the cruise sector is evident by its acclaimed status as an award winning cruise destination after winning ‘Most Improved Destination’ in 2012 and Most Responsive Port’ in 2014 from the industry leading publication, Cruise Insight Magazine. Take the shuttle bus to Weymouth The Georgian seaside resort of Weymouth is the nearest town to Portland Port and has much to offer. Portland Port operates a complimentary shuttle bus service, taking passengers directly from the ship to Weymouth’s Old Harbour. The town has a three mile, award winning beach which can deliver the ‘Summer Holiday’ experience for those looking to sunbathe or take a dip in the sea. The Nothe Fort has centuries of fascinating history locked away within its walls and hidden in its dungeons. Weymouth’s old Harbour has a range of artisan shops, eateries and pubs to choose from with plenty of places to sit, relax and watch the world and fishing boats go by. For those wanting a little retail therapy, Weymouth town centre has a wide range of shops, catering for all tastes. UK – Dorset, Weymouth Harbour during blue hour by Lukes_photos licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 Exploring Portland The Isle and Royal Manor of Portland is an explorers paradise. Warmed by the Gulf Stream and connected to the mainland at Abbotsbury by the wondrous Chesil Beach which runs 29 kilometres north to West Bay, Dorset. Portland really does have it all; quiet coves, disused quarries, a rich and fascinating history with some of the best views in Britain as well as being a haven for wildlife. The Isle of Portland is right on the port’s doorstep, with a great selection of places to visit, there has never been a better time to visit this beautifully rugged destination. Portland Bill Lighthouse and Buildings by Paul Tomlin is licensed under CC BY 2.0 UNESCO World Heritage Site - Jurassic Coast JOURNEY TIME (One Way): 45 minutes The Jurassic Coast World Heritage site stretches for 150 kilometres, from Orcombe Point in East Devon, right the way trough Dorset to Old Harry Rocks near Swanage. This breathtaking stretch of coastline encompasses rocks and formations that have witnessed 185 million years of the earth’s history. With sweeping beaches, dramatic cliffs, blustery headlands and sheltered coves, the Jurassic Coast has many activities on offer from fossil hunting and a wide range of aquatic sports to more sedate activities such as visiting museums, walking and enjoying local food and drink in beautiful surrounds. durdle door hdr by Paul Tomlin is licensed under CC BY 2.0 UNESCO World Heritage Site - Stonehenge JOURNEY TIME (One Way): 1 hour 35 minutes Stonehenge is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world and stands in the same condition today, as it did 3,500 years ago. Millions of people visit Stonehenge every year and many see it as a ‘must-see’ landmark. Whilst there are no written explanations as to why Stonehenge was built, there are plenty of theories, from human sacrifice rituals to astronomical purposes. Stonehenge by Qalinx is licensed under CC BY 2.0 UNESCO World Heritage Site - Roman City of Bath JOURNEY TIME (One Way): 2 hours Bath is a City of culture, home to some amazing Georgian architecture and Britain’s only natural thermal spa, the world famous, Roman Baths. The City itself has been standing since the time of the Roman so it is no surprise that it is the only city in the UK to be granted World Heritage status as a whole. The fascinating history of Bath can be explored through the countless museums and wonderful buildings which are present throughout the City. To make the most of Bath, it is recommended that passengers allow a whole day for the trip. Roman baths, Bath, England by Diego Delso is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 Local Attractions - Bennetts Water Gardens JOURNEY TIME (One Way): 15 minutes by car Bennetts Water Gardens are 8 acres of gardens which are home to National & International Collections of Water Lilies, flowering from late spring through to the autumn, creating one of the most outstanding displays of water lilies in Britain with the Monet Bridge as a centrepiece. Grass pathways lead you through the series of ponds and lakes surrounded by wetland plants, native trees, palms, wild plants and flowers. There are scenic places to sit and unwind and shaded woodland walks to explore. The Tropical House contains exotic plants including a cacti collection and a Family Nature Trail keeps young visitors interested. Water Gardens – Weymouth by Airwolfhound is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 Local Attractions - Abbotsbury JOURNEY TIME (One Way): 25 minutes Abbotsbury is a small picturesque village in the heart of rural Dorset, with plenty of things to see and do. Abbotsbury Swannery is the world’s only managed colony of nesting mute swans and visitors are able to walk right through the heart of it. From mid-May to the end of June you can witness the cygnets hatching all around the pathways. Besides the swans there is also a maze to get lost in, go-karts, tractor and trailer rides, a play area, gift shop and a cafe. Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens were first established in 1765 by the Countess of Ilchester as a kitchen garden for her nearby castle. Since then, the gardens have been developed into a magnificent 20 acre paradise filled with rare and exotic plant from all over the world. The Gardens are a mixture of formal and informal flowers, world famous for it’s Camellia groves and magnolias. Facilities include the Colonial Restaurant, a quality gift shop and a fantastic plant centre where many of the flowers grown in the Garden can be purchased. The Swannery by Iain A Wanless licensed under CC BY 2.0 Local Attractions - Athelhampton House JOURNEY TIME (One Way): 35 minutes Athelhampton is a 15th Century Manor House with Grade I listing, located five miles east of Dorset’s county town of Dorchester. The house is finely furnished throughout with many grand rooms including the Great Hall, the wine cellar and the Great Chamber. A gallery in the west wing exhibits the works of the Russian artist, Marevna who lived at the house in the 1940’s and 1950’s. There is also has a Grade I listed walled garden which dates from 1891. The garden is full of vistas and gains much from the beautiful fountains and the River Piddle which flows through it. Athelhampton House a 15th century house Dorchester by Jph1066 is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 Local Attractions - Sculptures by the Lakes JOURNEY TIME (One Way): 40 minutes Sculptures by the Lakes is a rare attraction for art lovers and those looking for some peace and quiet, it truly is one of a kind. It is tucked away in 26 acres of Dorset’s beautiful countryside. Simon Gudgeon, the sculptor, combines stunning scenery with impressive and unique sculptures. Local Attractions - Bovington Tank Museum JOURNEY TIME (One Way): 45 minutes Bovington Tank Museum boasts the largest collection of armoured fighting vehicles tanks in the world. It is located at Bovington Camp in Dorset which is still home to the British Army’s armoured forces today. With nearly 300 vehicles from 26 countries on display, the exhibition includes some of the most unique examples of military vehicles such as the worlds only working German Tiger tank and a British Mark I tank from the First World War. With plenty to see and do, the Tank Museum can keep a family entertained for a whole day or the day could be split by going to Monkey World as well which is only a few minutes away.